The Science of Making

Through a panel discussion and demonstrations, this event sponsored by Smith of London explores the invaluable and sometimes surprising links between science and making. Chaired by designer, materials engineer, presenter and director of the Institute of Making, Zoe Laughlin, the panel session sees award-winning scientists, makers, engineers and educators from a diverse range of disciplines share their journeys of building successful careers in the space between science and craft.

The line-up includes:
• Dr Rebecca Struthers – a real-life ‘time doctor’, independent watchmaker, author, historian and sustainable skills ambassador for the Association of Heritage Engineers.
• Roma Agrawal MBE – speaker, presenter and structural engineer who has worked on projects from sculptures and footbridges to The Shard (author of Built: The Hidden Stories Behind our Structures and children’s book How Was That Built?).
• Dr Maria Maclennan – lecturer and researcher at Edinburgh College of Art, service design manager at Police Scotland, and the world’s first ‘forensic jeweller’, exploring how jewellery can be used to assist identification and help solve crimes.
• Alom Shaha – science teacher, filmmaker and writer who has worked with organisations including BBC Bitesize and The Royal Institution to improve childhood learning through making (author of several books including Mr Shaha’s Marvellous Machines).

After the main session, scientific glassblower Terri Adams of the University of Oxford is on hand to talk through her endangered and sometimes life-saving craft. There are networking and opportunities to meet the panellists before and after the event. Authors Roma Agrawal and Alom Shaha are available to sign copies of their books after the session. Suitable for all ages, including livestreaming with real-time question and answer session for those unable to attend in person.